The prestigious Rugby Union Writers’ Club Pat Marshall Memorial Award for the sport’s personality of the year for 2014 was awarded to, England World Cup winner, Emily Scarratt at a gala ceremony in central London on Monday night.
Scarratt who has 55 England caps, was recognised after playing a key role in England’s 2014 World Cup triumph in France that saw her score 16 points including a fantastic solo try, in the final as Canada were beaten 21-9. The 24-year-old from Lichfield, who can play outside centre or full-back, was the tournament’s top points scorer with 70 points.
She becomes only the second woman to win the award after England team-mate Maggie Alphonsi was honoured in 2010. Scarratt was joined on the shortlist by World Cup captain Katie Mclean, Jonny Wilkinson and Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt.
Also honoured last evening was Alison Donnelly who won the 2nd Tankard Award for her wonderful work with Scrumqueens – Donnelly was treated to a standing ovation from the appreciative audience.
